The Joys of Confidence:
Improving Your Teen’s Self-Esteem

Adolescence can be an exciting experience, though it is a very challenging stage of maturing. As your child becomes a teen, it is expected they’ll be eager to develop their identity and become more independent, along with the changes that occur at this time. Their physical appearance and hormonal levels will begin to transform, and there will be academic and social pressures, as well. Bundled together, adolescence can be a daunting hurdle, which can trigger a cascade of confusing emotions.

The confusion and the challenges can seriously impact their confidence and self-esteem.  Healthy self-esteem and confidence may contribute to their having a happy and productive adolescence.  When unable to face them, though, they could be destined to struggle in their endeavors, not only at this time in their lives, but beyond. To enjoy the rewards of confidence and self-esteem in overcoming their challenges, counseling can help.

Adolescent Confidence and Self-esteem

Confidence refers to how your teen may feel about their abilities, which can change depending on the situation. It is common to not always be confident in certain situations, even when they have healthy self-esteem or generally feel good about themselves.  Though, it may evolve throughout life, the foundation is usually a result of your child’s experiences.

The two are intricately related and both are closely linked to the self-image. As they learn to accept and love themselves, their self-esteem and their self-confidence can become stronger. Similarly, as confidence leads them through various achievements and goals, their overall sense of self-esteem can be reinforced.  On the contrary, if they have an unsure concept of themselves or don’t feel capable enough, their self-esteem can suffer and their confidence can decrease.

Self-esteem is important because it also builds their self-worth and confidence, and it helps them develop a positive outlook on life. It also contributes to the ability to withstand daily pressures, resist risky behaviors and activities, seek out positive activities, and meet both their successes and trials appropriately.

A Winning Combination

Having healthy self-esteem and confidence may not necessarily be the only factor related to overall emotional health, nevertheless, they may fare better when faced with life’s difficulties. If they feel good about themselves, they can value who they are more, while acknowledging their limitations and while welcoming the opportunity to develop further. Healthy self-esteem can help develop positive emotions and characteristics. It can also build their confidence regarding skills necessary to achieve their goals, and to appreciate their successes.

Strengthening one’s self-esteem can result in their effectively improving their decision-making process, helping them avoid risky behaviors and dangerous situations. In a study done by the Department of Health Policy and Management, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, it was revealed that “bolstering self-esteem and improving academic performance among young people may have specific benefits in sexual decision-making and substance-related risk-taking.”

Teen Challenges vs. Healthy Self-esteem and Confidence

With the many changes happening physically, within the brain, and socially and academically, as well, expect that building self-esteem and confidence can be inherently challenging.  Having poor self-esteem can be particularly difficult for teens as it’s a stage when they are encountering and being exposed to new experiences, such as forming new friendships, gaining more responsibility and maintaining a positive attitude.

Adolescents can be faced with many issues. These can range from accepting their physical appearance and meeting their social and academic pressures to being accepted by their peers and understood by their family. These elements can influence, even disrupt, their self-esteem and confidence which further impacts their behavior, performance in school, relationships with others, and their ability to respond to various stimuli in their environment.

With poor self-esteem and confidence, young people can have difficulty accepting compliments, they can be perceived as defiant, rebellious and anti-social. Insecurity and a fear of failure may interfere with your child discovering their identity, building independence, and enjoying life. This may also prevent them from seeking help to resolve their issues or from making friends, tending to school work, or exploring new activities – which can be important elements of a healthy and happy adolescent life.

Boosting Self-Esteem and Confidence with Counseling/Therapy

Positive self-esteem and confidence are good indicators of emotional health. If your teen is emotionally healthy, they can assume more responsibility, behave in an independent and healthy manner, and be more tolerant of frustrating or harmful life events. They may also tend to be more enthusiastic about learning and discovering new things, take greater pride in their accomplishments, and be more in tune with their own feelings and those of others.

If you see your child struggling during this time, you can help them by seeking the assistance of a professional. Counseling can address teen issues, including low self-esteem and lack of confidence. The bolstering of your teen’s self-esteem and confidence, however, is increased if they can harness their own strengths originating from positive thoughts and a healthy self-image. This is how counseling can help your teenager.

If your teenager has been struggling with negative self-talk and criticism, building and strengthening their self-esteem on their own can be. Working with a counselor or therapist can be a good option as they can help provide the critical experience necessary in accelerating the process of building healthy self-esteem.

Taking A Shot At A Joyous Adolescence.

As a parent, you can make difference in your son’s or daughter’s life. You can help them gain the confidence to enjoy the rewards of healthy self-esteem in many ways. One insightful step you can take is seeking the assistance of a professional counselor or therapist. There are positive ways to encourage your child towards this direction – praise their achievements, encourage their participation in making decisions, and offer positive suggestions. –  the help of a trained expert independently contracted with Carolina Counseling Services – Sanford, NC, can be invaluable.

Your teen’s self-esteem is important, as it provides the framework to make positive decisions and develop problem-solving skills, which can be positive cornerstones of a healthier, well rounded life.  It’s also important because it gives them the assurance and courage in making those decisions, during adolescence and onward.

So, if your teen is showing indications that they need help in improving their confidence and developing positive self-esteem, don’t hesitate to seek assistance now. Carolina Counseling Services – Sanford, NC, can help your teen alleviate and resolve the difficulties so common during this time.  Call today to schedule an appointment!

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